Drug Abuse Prevention Information

Drug Free Schools and Communities Notice

The issue of drug abuse, misuse, and dependency concerns the entire University community, as well as our surrounding environment. The Drug Free Schools and Communities Act Amendment of 1989 Policy (Public Law 101-226) is federal legislation developed to eliminate illicit drugs and to initiate the intelligent use of alcohol on all college campuses, schools, and communities. The University of Akron is concerned with the quality of life on campus and believes that a rewarding college experience can only be achieved through the elimination of chemical abuses. Information is included below about drug and alcohol use and abuse, health risks, legal and University sanctions, resources and support services available to anyone with concerns about alcohol and drug problems. Students may obtain a printed copy of these materials by contacting the Office of the Vice President for Student Affairs, and employees should contact Human Resources.

Note: The Ohio Revised Code and federal law distinguish amongst controlled narcotic substances by category. Ohio law classifies narcotics according to a schedule (Schedule I – Opiates; Schedule II – Opium & Opium derivatives such as cocaine; Schedule III – stimulants such as steroids and LSD; and Schedule IV – narcotic drugs). Penalties vary depending upon the Schedule of the narcotic.

Note: Distribution of controlled substances in or near schools and colleges can result in penalties twice the regular penalty for the same offense. Trafficking in drugs can result in forfeiture of property including motor vehicles, vessels, money, real property and other personal property.

Note: Use of ANY controlled substance to aid in committing a crime of violence (including sexual assault) is a violation of federal law that could be prosecuted in addition to the underlying crime. Penalties may be as great as 20 years in prison with the penalties increased if the perpetrator has a prior conviction or if death or serious bodily injury results from the use of the controlled substance.

University Sanctions

Students

Unauthorized consumption, possession or distribution of alcohol is a violation of section (D) of the University Code of Student Conduct, located in University Rule 3359-41-01. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to, attendance at workshops, educational sanctions, disciplinary probation, removal from the residence halls, strict disciplinary probation, suspension, dismissal, and other sanctions appropriate to the violation. Possession, use or distribution of marijuana or any narcotic, hallucinogenic or other drug in either the refined or crude form which is prohibited by law is a violation of section (D) of the University Code of Student Conduct, located in University Rule 3359-41-01. Sanctions may include, but are not limited to, attendance at workshops, educational sanctions, disciplinary probation, removal from the residence halls, strict disciplinary probation, suspension, dismissal, and other sanctions appropriate to the violation. For more information about the Code of Student Conduct see University Rules 3359-41-01 available at http://www.uakron.edu/dotAsset/1344508.pdf.

University Employees

Employees who are under the influence, possess, use or furnish alcohol to a minor violate University rules 3359-20-05.5 and 3359-47-01 and may receive appropriate sanctions, up to and including termination. Possession or use of illegal drugs on University property or any other property where University business is being carried out is a violation of University rules 3359-20-05.5 and 3359-47-02. Unlawful manufacture, distribution, dispensing, possession, or use.of any drug or controlled substance is a violation of University rule 3359-47-02. Employees who violate these rules may be subject to sanctions up to and including termination. If disciplinary action under these policies is taken against an Employee covered by a collective bargaining agreement, the action shall be subject to grievance procedures set forth in such agreement. For more information about the University’s Alcohol Policy and the University’s Drug Free Workplace Policy see http://www.uakron.edu/dotAsset/1344556.pdf.

Resources

The University of Akron has the IMPACT Employee Assistance (EAP) & Work/Life Program which offers access to confidential professional support. The IMPACT program includes access to unlimited phone consultation, six complimentary face-to-face counseling sessions per person per occurrence, plus an expansive collection of resources. The IMPACT Employee Assistance (EAP) & Work/Life Program is available 24 hour a day, 7 days a week by calling 800-227-6007.

Students who are struggling with alcohol or substance abuse issues also may be referred to The University of Akron Crisis, Assessment, Referral and Evaluation “CARE” team. The CARE Team provides guidance and assistance to students who are experiencing crises and responds to students when concerns have been identified for a student’s health, welfare and safety.

In addition to the specific programs identified above, the University, as well as its constituent student and employee organizations, offers various programming concerning the effects of alcohol and substance abuse for constituent University audiences throughout the year. Information regarding ongoing programming is communicated to students and employees through informational postings, webpage announcements and electronic newsletters that the University sends to students (through Zipmail) and employees (through the Digest.) Student organizations also may use the Zipmail system to share information with University students.

ON CAMPUS SUPPORT AND RESOURCES (available to students and employees)

Center for Nursing: 330-972-6968

Clinic for Child Study and Family Therapy 330-972-6822

Counseling and Testing Center 330-972-7082

Health Services 330-972-7808

Department of Psychology 330-972-6714

Department of Sport Science and Wellness Education 330-972-7473

HOTLINES

Alcohol & Drug Helpline 1-800-821-4357

Alcohol Treatment Referral Hotline 1-800-ALCOHOL (252-6465)

Center for Substance Abuse Prevention (CSAP) 1-800-729-6686

Ctr. for Substance Abuse Treatment National Drug/Alcohol Treatment Referral Service 800-662- HELP (4357)

National Council on Alcoholism & Drug Dependence (NCADD) Hotline 1-800-622-2255